The Townhouse Restaurant, Durham
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
The Townhouse Restaurant in Durham offers a stylish and intimate dining experience in the heart of the city. Located at 34 Old Elvet, it features a modern British menu in a compact yet comfortable setting. Known for its welcoming staff and relaxed atmosphere, the restaurant blends fun and formality with chic décor and soft background music, making it a favored spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
A brief summary to The Townhouse Restaurant
- 34 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN, GB
- +441913592887
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance during weekends to secure a spot in this popular intimate venue.
- Try the seasonal dishes to experience the freshest local ingredients.
- Enjoy the relaxed ambiance with soft background music, perfect for conversation.
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter dining experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Townhouse Restaurant location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Townhouse Restaurant
A Stylish Culinary Gem in Durham
Nestled on Old Elvet, The Townhouse Restaurant presents a compact yet stylish venue that feels more spacious than its size suggests. The interior design combines modern British elegance with playful touches, such as purple-velvet chairs and leopard-print carpeting, creating an inviting atmosphere that balances sophistication with comfort. Background music is thoughtfully kept at a low level to foster relaxed conversation.A Modern British Menu with Local Flair
The Townhouse offers a contemporary British menu that highlights local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Diners can expect a range of thoughtfully prepared dishes that reflect both tradition and innovation. The restaurant’s culinary approach emphasizes quality and presentation, catering to those seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience in Durham.Welcoming Service and Ambience
Staff at The Townhouse are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to an overall warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s intimate scale allows for personalized service, making guests feel well cared for whether visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion. This attention to detail enhances the dining experience, complementing the stylish setting.Location and Setting
Situated at 34 Old Elvet, The Townhouse benefits from its central location in Durham, close to the city’s cultural and historic landmarks. The restaurant’s setting within this vibrant area makes it an excellent choice for visitors exploring Durham who wish to enjoy quality British cuisine in a chic environment. Its proximity to Durham University adds a dynamic, youthful energy to the locale.Design and Atmosphere
The restaurant’s design aesthetic is a blend of modern and quirky elements, offering a unique visual appeal. The use of bold colors and textures creates a memorable dining space that stands out from more conventional establishments. This distinctive style contributes to The Townhouse’s reputation as a venue that is both fun and formal, appealing to a diverse clientele.Dining Experience and Visitor Appeal
The Townhouse is well-suited for a range of occasions, from relaxed lunches to romantic dinners. Its combination of quality food, stylish décor, and attentive service makes it a versatile choice for locals and tourists alike. Whether celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a meal out, guests can expect a welcoming atmosphere and a satisfying culinary experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Band Stand
0.4 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Town Hall
0.5 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.6 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.6 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Kathedra
0.8 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
0.8 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.8 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham
1.1 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Viaduct
1.1 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham Obelisk
1.3 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.5 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Ludworth Tower
7.8 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.6 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.6 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.6 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
No 59 Old Elvet
0.2 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Waterside
0.2 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
The Durham Cow
0.3 km
Step into Durham’s oldest pub, The Dun Cow, where Tudor charm and legendary tales blend with excellent ales in a cozy historic setting.
Elvet Bridge
0.3 km
A medieval stone arch bridge over the River Wear, now a lively pedestrian walkway with cafes, restaurants and stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the city’s dramatic river gorge.
Department of History • Durham University
0.4 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.4 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Durham Museum
0.4 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.4 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Umbrella alley
0.5 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Durham Castle
0.5 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Palace Green
0.5 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.5 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Market Hall
0.5 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Palace Green Library
0.5 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Essential places to dine
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.0 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
0.1 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Zen
0.1 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Notch Durham
0.3 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Rabbit Hole
0.3 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.4 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Zizzi - Durham
0.4 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Restaurant 17
0.4 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Lebaneat
0.4 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
The Cellar Door
0.4 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Tango Durham
0.4 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Flat White Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.4 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Tapas Factory
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
7 Day Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
TJ Hughes
0.4 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Oxfam Shop
0.4 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Prince Bishops Place
0.4 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Georgian Window
0.4 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.4 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.4 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.4 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Mugwump
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
0.4 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Elvet & Bailey
0.4 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Boathouse
0.5 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dun Cow Durham
0.0 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
The Half Moon Inn
0.3 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.3 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Library
0.4 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Osbournes
0.4 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
0.4 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Blue Eye
0.4 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.4 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Drunken Duck
0.5 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
24 North Bailey Club
0.5 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Champagne Bar
0.6 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.6 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.7 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klute
0.4 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.4 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Fabio's Bar
0.5 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Bohemia Durham
0.6 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.8 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.5 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.6 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.7 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.8 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.9 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.9 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.9 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.9 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Quirky
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly